Nowadays, the band shell is perhaps best noted for its annual July 3rd fireworks display, as well as performances by the Peoria Municipal Band and other local groups. The park’s original band shell, constructed in 1896, was replaced by the current set-up in 1960. For more than a decade thereafter, big names were few there, unless you count Charlie Rich in ‘74.

The first show featured heavy sets by Nazereth and former Deep Purple frontman Ian Gillan, followed later than month by Jeff Beck opening for Fleetwood Mac ($7.50 per ticket). The other two shows that summer offered a softer sound, first with The Captain & Tennille, then The Beach Boys — the latter of which included opener Billy Joel, still a year from releasing “The Stranger.”

In 1977 and 1979, Goldberg slated a handful of other shows. All sold well, but Goldberg was dogged by noise complaints.

“In that neighborhood, the houses are so close,” he says. “You won’t believe who got the most complaints: The Beach Boys.”

So, Goldberg moved on to other venues, and Glen Oak Park went back to more civic-minded affairs. These days, the annual fireworks are louder than the Beach Boys ever were, but no one complains.

Journal Star staff

3 Comments

Peoria needs to start a capital fundraising campaign to replace the, old, band shell. It’s ‘ historic ‘ , perhaps. But obsolete. With all the other major enhancements and improvements taking place within Peoria’s famous Glen Oak, Park, why isn’t there a 21st-century band shell with more architectural flair and acoustical enhancement? Our zoo’s been transformed, the (former) park district administration building’s being converted into a Children’s Playhouse museum, other parts of park grounds have enhanced with beautification and new activity areas. Let’s not neglect the band shell!

No outrageous expenditures, nor property acquisitions are required. But, with some investment, the Glen Oak band shell could become an even greater civic asset than it is now. The Peoria Park District maintains it’s the City’s property. So, it’s up to Peorians to achieve…. WHAT SAY YOU, PEORIA?

In ’76 my Brother and I were the two young boys, 6 & 5 at the time, that ended up On stage with Nazereth. What a great day and so happy I was there to see the “Rock & Roll Days” of Glen Oak! Thanks Jay Goldberg!